UK Global Talent: Settlement Requirements for Digital Technology Applicants

Why do some applicants qualify after three years and others after five?

The government’s digital technology guidance gives a three-year qualifying period for exceptional talent and five years for exceptional promise.[1] Completing that period is one requirement for settlement; it does not make approval automatic.

Check the endorsement decision and visa approval to confirm the category granted. If you previously held another UK visa, check which periods can count. Time spent studying, working or living in the UK as a dependant cannot simply be added together without reference to the rules.

How much must you earn, and what evidence is needed?

The official guidance requires UK earnings related to your specialist field during your most recent Global Talent permission. There is no fixed minimum amount. Examples of evidence include payslips, employer letters, bank records and relevant self-employment documents.[4]

The evidence should explain the work performed, the reason for the payment and when it was received. Employees can link a job description to payslips and bank statements. Independent consultants can organise contracts, invoices and receipts by project. Company turnover, personal earnings and business funding are different and should be described accurately.

Awards, references and press coverage used for the original endorsement demonstrate professional achievement. They do not replace the earnings evidence needed for settlement.

How are absences from the UK counted?

The continuous residence rules normally limit absences to 180 days in any twelve-month period, subject to applicable exceptions.[3] This is a rolling period, rather than a new allowance starting each January. Two trips in different calendar years may therefore fall within the same assessment period.

Some research-related absences have specific exemptions. Digital technology applicants should not assume that all business travel is exempt simply because they hold a Global Talent visa.[5] Keep departure and return dates for each trip, with supporting evidence if an exception is relevant.

Is English required for settlement?

Yes, unless an exemption applies. As checked on 2 October 2026, Appendix Global Talent requires speaking and listening at CEFR B1 for settlement applications made before 26 March 2027, and B2 for applications made on or after that date.[2][6]

The relevant date is the settlement application date, not the date of the first Global Talent visa. The absence of an English requirement for the initial visa does not remove the requirement at settlement. The Life in the UK requirement and any exemptions also need to be considered.[5]

Can partners and children settle at the same time?

Not necessarily. The rules set a five-year qualifying period for a dependent partner.[2] If both partners start their permissions together and the main applicant uses the three-year route, the dependent partner may need an extension. Children have separate conditions that depend on the parents’ status and the family’s circumstances.

The government generally allows an application up to 28 days before the relevant residence period is completed.[5] When choosing a date, also check that your current permission remains valid and that the earnings, absence, language and other applicable requirements are met. Family members can prepare to different schedules where necessary.

Official sources

1. GOV.UK: Digital technology Global Talent and settlement periods

2. Immigration Rules: Appendix Global Talent, settlement and dependants

3. Immigration Rules: Appendix Continuous Residence

4. GOV.UK: Evidence of earnings for Global Talent extension or settlement

5. GOV.UK: Settlement timing, language and knowledge of life requirements

6. Home Office: March 2026 Statement of Changes HC 1691

General information. Check the applicable rules, documentary requirements and fees for the individual application.